Your say / Arts
‘Changing our identity is a major move that requires careful consideration’
We were clear right from the start of our campaign to raise funding to transform Colston Hall that we had listened to peoples’ concerns regarding negative associations with Edward Colston and that we would be reviewing the name as part of our redevelopment.
We want the Hall to be a place open to all. That’s why we’re working so hard to champion accessibility for performers and audiences, as well as those who will be able to participate in music education and enterprise, and reviewing the name has always been part of our plan.
Colston Hall is well known locally, regionally and nationally, as one of the major arts and entertainment centres in the country. Changing our identity is a major move that requires careful consideration.
is needed now More than ever
As we have always stated, we need to go through a thorough process that takes into account views from local, national and even international stakeholders and partners.
We are fundraising for a substantial transformation of the existing building and are currently exploring naming rights, which offer an opportunity to make a real difference to the campaign.
Our continuing commitment and focus is to be great stewards of this historic venue that has been at Bristol’s heart for so many generations and realise our ambition to deliver the world-class concert facility that Bristol deserves.
Louise Mitchell is the chief executive of Bristol Music Trust, which runs the Colston Hall. In September 2014, the Trust launched its £45m transformation campaign to establish the venue as a national centre for entertainment, education and enterprise. The redevelopment will complete the transformation of the Colston Hall, which started in 2009 with the development of the new foyer, and create one of the best arts and learning facilities in the country.
Read more: ‘Let’s remove Colston’s name from our publicly-owned concert hall’
Read more: ‘Calls to change name of Colston Hall are misguided’
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